On the morning of 22/5, cranes and excavators began dismantling the remaining sections of a villa owned by Vo Tan Thanh, 43, located in An Thoi Ward 4.

Authorities stated that the villa, a complex featuring a house and garden, was constructed by Thanh on an illegally occupied plot exceeding 15,000 m2. This area included approximately 5,000 m2 of public land and over 10,000 m2 under the management of the Naval Region 5 Command.

Villa being demolished, morning of 22/5. Photo: Dung Hoang

Despite repeated fines and demands for self-demolition, Thanh failed to comply. Past enforcement attempts encountered difficulties, hindering a definitive resolution and sparking public concern.

The previous night, prior to the enforcement order's activation, the villa owner partially dismantled the structure and relocated valuable assets but did not voluntarily surrender the land. Authorities then proceeded with the planned enforcement, reclaiming the plot.

Excavator demolishing the violating structure. Photo: Dung Hoang

Also this morning, Phu Quoc authorities initiated the forced demolition of an additional 17 illegal structures, including a house exceeding 200 m2 owned by Thanh's wife.

According to authorities, Phu Quoc plans to issue hundreds of enforcement orders starting early June. These orders target structures built on encroached land, without proper permits, or on plots designated for project recovery.

This action is part of the locality's broader effort to restore urban order and prepare infrastructure for APEC 2027.

Ngoc Tai